WhatsApp has officially released its first dedicated iPad app, ending years of anticipation from users seeking a native tablet experience. The announcement follows a cryptic teaser posted on the platform’s official X (formerly Twitter) account just a day prior.
The new WhatsApp app for iPad is now live on the App Store and can be downloaded directly. The release marks the first time iPad users can access WhatsApp through an app designed specifically for iPadOS, rather than relying on workarounds like WhatsApp Web or third-party solutions.
The iPad version includes nearly all of WhatsApp’s core features. Users can make video and audio calls with up to 32 participants, share their screens during calls, and switch between the front and rear cameras.
The app also supports iPadOS multitasking tools such as Stage Manager, Split View, and Slide Over, enabling users to chat while simultaneously working in other apps. The app integrates seamlessly with accessories like the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil, further enhancing usability for iPad users.
WhatsApp has confirmed that the new iPad app will sync conversations and media across devices, including iPhone, Mac, and other linked platforms. Messages and calls remain end-to-end encrypted, ensuring data privacy across the entire ecosystem.
The app also includes Chat Lock, a feature that allows users to secure specific conversations with biometric authentication or passcodes. This addition supports privacy on shared devices by restricting access to selected chats.